United Colleges Group (UCG) would like to congratulate one of its students after they won gold at the finals of the highly respected WorldSkills UK competition.
Mark Kiss, 19, from the (College of North West London (CNWL), took top prize in the Website Design category at the awards ceremony celebrating the nation’s best apprentices at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on November 17.
The national finals were split into four categories — construction and infrastructure; engineering & technology; health, hospitality and lifestyle; and digital business & creative — with Mark winning gold in Web Development ahead of Daniel Cobzariu from Bedford College Group (silver) and Edinburgh College’s Euan Livingstone (bronze).
Mark started his journey with UCG on the re-engagement course and has since demonstrated exceptional skill, resilience and dedication to reach Level 3 in BTEC National Extended Diploma in Information Technology.
“His journey from being on the reserve list to becoming a champion is truly inspiring, and I am pleased with this fantastic victory,” said Yacob Woldehwiot, Lecturer, ICT, at CNWL.
WorldSkills UK’s competitions are designed by industry experts and help young people grow personally and professionally by developing their technical and employability skills.
The competition-based development programme is proven to upskill and develop young people from all backgrounds and abilities.
Robert Halfon, Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education, said: “I would like to congratulate all the competitors in the UK WorldSkills final. They have done an amazing job showcasing their exceptional talent.
“They are all winners in my eyes for choosing a pathway that will build their skills and career potential, allowing them to climb the skills ladder of opportunity.”
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, said: “This is a life-changing moment for these young people. They are the new generation of highflyers that will give UK employers a competitive edge.
“Our finals not only celebrate the best in young talent, but also provide a vital opportunity to see how skill development in the UK stacks up both domestically and against our international neighbours.”